London's pet cafés are just what we need right now

In a world where everything feels uncertain, there's nothing more essential than getting a daily dose of comfort where we need it, which is why a trip to the local café, or a sumptuous afternoon tea, is a highlight of the day, week or month for lots of us.

In London these days, you can do one better: not only can you have your delicious coffee and yummy cakes, you can coo at glorious animals in one of London's pet cafés, which have all changed their operating procedures to ensure they're Covid-compliant. Pet therapy is exactly what we need to feel a bit more settled in the current madness.

Ready to feel like the cat that got the cream? These are London's best pet cafés to book into immediately...

Photo: Java Whiskers

Java Whiskers
105 Great Portland Street, Marylebone, London W1W 6QF
https://javawhiskers.co.uk/booking-info

Already a hit in Sweden, Java Whiskers is opening its London outpost on 31 October. Not only will customers enjoy stroking the mogs and hanging out with the rescue kitties – there are up to nine at any time, fostered from The Scratching Post cat rescue shelter in Essex – but if you have a connection with a particular cat, you can also apply to adopt it. So yes, this might just be your gateway to pet ownership.

The café is open to children aged 10 and up, with weekday bookings from £14.99 for an hour.

Photo: Lady Dinah's Cat Emporium

Lady Dinah's Cat Emporium
152-154 Bethnal Green Road, London E2 6DG
https://www.ladydinahs.com/

This cat café has been delighting London's residents – of the two- and four-legged variety – since it opened in 2014, and has up to 14 rescue cats at any time. It's well worth a visit for the whimsical interiors (think Alice in Wonderland tea party meets cat playground), as much as for the decadent high tea with scrumptious cakes. And let's not forget those adorable kitties roaming around and playing happily as you sip.

Sessions are £15 for 90 minutes, and open to children 12 and up.

Photo: Whiskers & Cream

Whiskers & Cream
593 Holloway Road, Archway, London N19 4DJ
https://www.whiskersandcream.com/

You're likely to spot a cat or two luxuriating on the Art Deco staircase in this gorgeous cat café in north London, which houses a mix of pedigree and rescue cats, nine in total. Book in for a 90-minute slot from £11 (including a drink).

Great news, families: kids of all ages are welcome, however if they are under 11 you can only book them in online.

Artisan teas, hot chocolates and delicious cakes (including vegan and gluten-free options), are all on the menu.

Photo: The Cuddle Club

The Cuddle Club
https://thecuddleclubuk.com/

One for all the dog-lovers out there, The Cuddle Club is a wellbeing initiative operating on the premise that snuggling pets works wonders for uplifting moods, something we wholeheartedly agree with.

While The Cuddle Club isn't in a café setting, you can choose from a range of bookable options if you're after some doggy love in your life, whether you're keen to calm stressed employees, or enhance workplace wellbeing and communication.

Dogs can come into your office or home with Dog Therapy Parties, or you can book in for walks and socially distanced days out with these adorable pooches.